May 20, 2013

Josh Lindblom optioned to Round Rock

After Monday night's game, the Texas Rangers announced they had optioned right-hander Josh Lindblom and catcher Robinson Chirinos to Triple A Round Rock, effective Tuesday.

Lindblom had been recalled earlier in the day to start Monday's game in place of Alexi Ogando. He went 4 2/3 innings, allowing four runs on seven hits with two walks and four strikeouts.

Under normal rules, Lindblom would have to stay in the minors for at least 10 days -- assuming there's no injury to a member of the current pitching staff -- before being recalled. However, the Rangers play a doubleheader in Arizona next Monday and MLB suspends the 10-day rule for doubleheaders, which would allow them to add Lindblom for the May 27 day-night doubleheader.

The Rangers have relied heavily on their bullpen the past two nights, as Lindblom and Sunday's starter Derek Holland each went 4 2/3 innings.

The Rangers have not announced a corresponding move yet, but the most likely option would seem to be left-handed reliever Neal Cotts. He has been dominant in Triple A so far this season with a 0.78 ERA over 15 appearances.

The Chirinos move was expected, as starting catcher A.J. Pierzynski is set to come off the disabled list and start Tuesday.